A Dickens Holiday

Wick Smith

Wick Smith

A Family Tradition Continues - Presented by the Arts Council with the Downtown Alliance.

What is it?

On Friday, Nov. 24, 2017, Historic Downtown Fayetteville will again be transformed into a unique and wonderful experience. So roll back the clock with us ­for the 18th annual A Dickens Holiday from 1 to 9 p.m.!

Horse-drawn carriages roll down Hay Street carrying shoppers the old-fashioned way, past merchants’ windows adorned with beautiful Victorian holiday decorations, past artisans and vendors of all sorts of delightful treats. Joyful children pose with Father Christmas for memory-laden pictures. The smells of cider and gingerbread permeate the chilly air. And there is Ebenezer Scrooge himself, pursued by the ghost of Jacob Marley.

As darkness approaches and the clock reaches 5 p.m., townspeople gather in front of the Arts Council for the candlelight procession to the Market House, followed by fireworks. After the fireworks, the festivities continue until 9 p.m.

Annie’s Alehouse – Returning this year is “Annie’s Alehouse,” inside the Arts Council building, modeled on the old Victorian pubs. Indulge in beer, wine, and non-alcoholic cider, along with some pub-styled music in the gallery by Brynmor. The building is open from 1 to 9 p.m.

Preserve a lifetime memory with a picture of you and your loved ones with Father Christmas and an authentic Victorian sleigh at the Arts Council building (301 Hay St.). 1-8:30 p.m.

Amazing holiday performances, along with an exhibition inside the Arts Council, which is transformed into “Annie’s Alehouse.” 1-9 p.m. Check back for more details.

Dickens Carriage Rides – Enjoy the sights and sounds of a Dickens downtown on a big decorated horse-drawn hitch wagon. Only $10 for adults, $5 for children. Tickets on sale at 222 Hay St. beginning at noon on the day of the event. Come early – they sell out fast! 1-9 p.m.

This Victorian Life display on 2nd floor of the Market House from 1-9 p.m., sponsored by the Fayetteville Area Transportation & Local History Museum. Literature, military items, a Victorian Christmas tree and other artifacts show how the Victorians celebrated the holidays. An interactive display allows visitors to identify household items from Victorian times that are no longer in general use.

Candlelight Procession - Gather in front, or to the side, of the Arts Council for the 5:30 p.m. candlelight procession to the Market House. Pick up a free candle at selected merchants, or in front of the Arts Council building (while supplies last). Join thousands of townspeople for Fayetteville’s largest candlelight procession to the Market House, followed by fireworks! Stay for a full night of fun after kicking off the holiday season with a traditional fireworks display. Carriage rides, crafts, holiday shopping and more continue until 9 p.m.

Virtual Costume Contest - Entering the contest is simple— just find our roving photographer, “Marvelous Mauve,” and have your photo taken. Wearing mauve, she will also be at the Rainbow Room from 2-3pm and 4-5pm.

Full Costume Prizes: First prize is a $50 gift card for Blue Moon, a private carriage ride for two during the Carriage Rides with Santa, and the opportunity to go on the balcony of the Market House for the procession.

Second place receives a regular carriage ride with Santa and a $50 gift card for the Wing Company.

Other Holiday Happenings: Create a Victorian ornament to take home or hang on the community tree from 1 to dusk at Fascinate-U Children’s Museum ($2 per child, $1 per adult). Enjoy TubaChristmas in the sanctuary at Hay Street United Methodist Church at 4 p.m. Take a free tour of the 1897 Poe House, decorated in Victorian style, at the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

You can become a part of A Dickens Holiday by strolling the streets as a Victorian lady or gentleman with an easy-to-make costume. Just click here for quick notes on costuming.

Volunteers are needed to assist with set up/break down, cider and gingerbread, candle distribution, Father Christmas photos, vendor load and more. Individuals, groups and families are welcome to volunteer for a few hours or help out all day.

Oh, did we mention you can volunteer while dressed in Victorian style?